Original KISS drummer Peter Criss is making a major return with a brand-new rock album, set for release this fall. Co-produced by Barry Pointer — known for his work with Ozzy Osbourne, Marilyn Manson, and Steve Stevens — the project features an all-star lineup, including bassists Billy Sheehan and Piggy D. (Matthew Montgomery), guitarists John 5 and Mike McLaughlin, and Paul Shaffer on piano.
On Thursday (April 24), longtime KISStorian Julian Gill, founder of KissFAQ.com, shared a special video message from Criss. In it, the 79-year-old musician announced:
“I have my new rock and roll album coming out for you Kiss Army guys this fall. I really hope you like it. God bless each and every one of you.”
Gill, who got an exclusive listen to the album at Criss’s studio, described it as “hard-hitting, vibrant, and absolutely powerful.” He praised Pointer’s production, noting that Criss’s drums sound massive and his vocals are stronger than ever.
Billy Sheehan’s basslines, Gill added, are “perfect and spectacular,” locked tightly with Criss’s pounding rhythms. Meanwhile, Mike McLaughlin and John 5 deliver electrifying guitar work throughout the album. Piggy D. — known for his stints with Marilyn Manson and Alice Cooper — also plays bass on select tracks, while Paul Shaffer brings the heat on Hammond B-3 organ and piano.
Gill emphasized that Criss has penned some “incredibly powerful songs” for the record, fueling excitement for its release later this year. He also teased that Criss will participate in more detailed interviews closer to the album launch.
Peter Criss originally parted ways with KISS in 1980, but his legacy in the band remains massive. Over the years, he contributed lead vocals to some of their most iconic tracks, including “Beth,” “Black Diamond,” and “Hard Luck Woman.” Though he reunited with KISS during the 1990s reunion tour, he stepped away again in 2004 and was replaced by Eric Singer.
Beyond KISS, Criss pursued a solo career that reflected his wide-ranging musical influences. His last solo effort, One For All (2007), featured a mix of rock, jazz, blues, and Broadway tunes, with guest appearances from Paul Shaffer and Will Lee.
In 2017, Criss performed what was billed as his final full U.S. concert at the Cutting Room in New York City — but now, with this new album on the horizon, the Catman proves he’s far from done.
